This thread is dedicated to the guardians of a wonderful 1947 Daimler DB18 Luxury Saloon, namely the Late K N Srinivasan, his son and daughter, the Late K S Raman and Ms. K S Manorama respectively. Their passion for this car and its preservation is something to be seen and experienced. The tales of their travels and experiences in this car could keep you awake till next morning, without ebbing one’s interest.
My good fortune in acquiring this treasure has a lot to do with Mr. Sripathi Rao's advice and involvement. He shared a strong intellectual bond with the Late Raman, who was a regular visitor to Mr. Sripathi’s house for discussion and vintage cars. They both worked very closely on the restoration of the 1903 Renault De Dion, with Raman giving all the technical backup.
Many know that Sripathi and I also share a close bond driven by the passion of vintage and classic cars. Along with my father, he has been instrumental in teaching me how to appreciate vintage cars.
Mr. Sripathi’s daughter, DR Latha Tantry is the author of a book on K S Raman – “The Incredible Life of a Viswakarma”, published by Ms. K S Manorama. This book and my discussions with Ms. K S Manorama, has been a significant source of information on the history of the family and the Daimler.
I would like to share the journey of this magnificent car and my fortune on being the current owner.
Daimler DB 18 Luxury Saloon bearing Chassis # DB 50931, Engine # 12376, was produced in the later months of 1947, at Coventry, UK. The first owner was His Highness
Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar Bahadur, Maharaja of Mysore (18 July 1919 – 23 September 1974), the 25th and last Maharaja of the Princely State of Mysore from 1940 to 1950. K N Srinivasan was His Highness’s collegemate at the Mysore Maharaja's College. It's through this relationship that it is believed that car was acquired by K N Srinivasan, in 1957.
This beautiful painting done by the previous owner, gives you a idea on this wonderful car
picture credit to K S Raman Foundation
K N Srinivasan was an extraordinary person in his own right. After graduating from Maharaja College, Mysore, he joined Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bangalore in the Engine Department. He was a man of many talents and his passion for flying made him acquire his own plane. After obtaining his “A” License, he acquired a Spinston Sentinel 4-5 LC plane.
K N Srinivasan and his Spinston Sentinel Plane
picture credit to K S Raman Foundation
K N Srinivasan and his wife the Late Rajalakshmi had a huge influence on their children. They instilled a penchant for learning in the kids and exposed them to music, art, photography, books and a love for machines. These influences molded them into multi-talented personalities with a deep respect for knowledge and learning.
Probably the most talented amongst the children was K S Raman. Born on January 14th, 1957, Raman went on to achieve many things in his short life of 45 years, with modesty being his hallmark. After topping National High School, Basavanagudi, he joined engineering with a merit seat at the prestigious Vishveshwaraiah College of Engineering, Bangalore. Being a rank student with a passion for learning, he enrolled for Masters’ Degree in Aero Science from the most prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISC), Bangalore.
After passing from IISC, he joined National Aerospace Limited. By the time of his untimely death in 2003, Raman had served in NAL for 22 years and his last position was that of Deputy Director. Raman, being inspired by this father, trained to be a pilot at the Government Flight Training School, Jakkur and he emulated his father by flying solo in an Aeronca Super Chief.
With his Private Pilot’s License he also flew the Pushpak and Cessna 152, as pilot in charge.
Raman at Jakkur
picture credit to K S Raman Foundation
Unfortunately, much to the shock and sorrow of all people who knew him, Raman passed away on the morning of July 16th, 2003 leaving behind a shining trail of achievement to inspire the future generation. I feel grateful and immensely proud of acquiring a car that meant so much to this great and humble man.